ETA: Thanks to the compassionate reporting of Trudy Ring at The Advocate, we now know that the victim was known as Cemia “Ci Ci” Dove, 20 years old, from Cleveland. The Plain Dealer has since edited the offending article, removing the pronoun “he”, and added the statement: “This story has been edited since originally posted to bring it within the style recommended by the Associated Press involving transgender people.” View the original piece that caused so much hurt in the LGBT community here.

Upon confirming that a dead body recently discovered in Olmstead Township was indeed a transgender woman currently undergoing hormone therapy, Plain Dealer “reporter” John Caniglia was excited to let his readers know that the woman’s “fight for acceptance” was finally over.

Despite being fully aware that Ms. Acoff identified as a woman and was taking estrogen, John goes on to mis-gender her by using the wrong pronoun exactly eleven times in the article, as well as not-so-subtly insinuating that she was a criminal and a liar who ultimately deserved whatever happened to her. This is exactly the kind of vitriol that feeds and strengthens the hatred many people already feel for anyone outside of the gender binary. The murder rate for trans* men and women is egregiously high already (which, apparently, wasn’t important enough to mention in an article about yet another trans* woman being murdered) and anyone that uses their public platform to feed this beast bears a portion of the blame. They must be made to answer for the blood on their hands.

Now, I’m not naive enough to be surprised at seeing yet another trans* victim disrespected in the press – the fewoutletsreporting on this matter are all guilty of mis-gendering the victim – I am genuinely surprised at how blatant John’s contempt is. While reading this drivel that he calls “reporting”, one almost feels as if you can actually see his eyes narrowed underneath beads of sweat as he furiously hit the backspace key on sentences that weren’t nearly hateful enough for him. It really does seem as if he deliberately tried to be as degrading as possible.

Mission accomplished, John. Hey, maybe after you finish your coffee tomorrow morning, we can meet at the burial site and piss on her grave? Just in case people didn’t quite get the message.

Feel free to let John know what you think by calling him at 216-999-4097 or emailing him at jcaniglia@plaind.com; if you’re a fellow Clevelander, you can submit a letter to the editor for Plain Dealer here.

As some of you may have heard, a violent hate crime took place here in Cleveland on November 19th. At the Rapid Transit stop on W. 65th & Madison, three transphobic teenagers waiting at the bottom of the stairs brutally ambushed Alison Lancaster, screaming epithets such as “fag” and “dyke” while repeatedly kicking and punching her down to the ground.

Not only was the Emergency Call Box at the station broken that night when Alison needed to call for help, the survellience cameras were also not functioning. When Alison was being treated for her injuries at Cleveland Metro Hospital, the officer that arrived to take her report of the crime was cold and nonchalant; he did not take a description of the assailants, he did not take pictures or record details of the injuries, and when filling out the police report, he asked whether the attackers used hateful language that would classify this as a hate crime and she replied yes, indeed they did – he ignored her and checked “N/A” for Not Applicable.

This crime is classified as a Hate Crime under the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act.
“The Act authorizes the federal government to investigate and prosecute bias-motivated crimes based on the victim’s actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or disability.”

This officer wasn’t particularly concerned with bias, I suppose.

Besides the theft of her bag, which contained her financial information such as checkbook and debit cards as well as cell phone; Allison sustained serious injury from this attack, from black eyes to a cut on her leg that required stitches.

Since the night of the attack, the Cleveland Police Department has repeatedly blown off Alison’s attempts to encourage investigation as well as providing conflicting information for the steps she should take. Below is a brief summary of the run-around Alison has been given:

1) The police have not checked with RTA to look for the assailants on other working surveillance cameras along the route.
2) On November 20th, Alison used Tmobiles GPS tracker to discover that her stolen cell phone was being used repeatedly to make phone calls from an address on Clifton. When she called the police to advise them of this, they refused to take the information from her, much less send a car to the location to investigate.
3) She was also told on November 20th that a detective would be assigned to her case, but she must wait until Monday the 21st.
4) On Monday the 21st, she was told that the case would not be assigned to a detective; that she must wait for a detective to voluntarily take interest in the case. You can imagine the frustration this run-around would cause a victim. It took a full week for a detective to be ‘assigned’ (or not?) to the case, and Alison has not heard from Detective Hamerick despite leaving a voicemail for him.
5) As far as Cleveland RTA goes, they are dragging their feet on fixing the survellience cameras, though thankfully at least the Emergency Call Box is now in working order.
6) RTA Transit Police attempted to discourage Channel 19 today from doing their follow up report of this attack, seemingly nervous about the broken cameras being brought to the communities attention.

Considering the hard work that Ohioans put into repealing Senate Bill 5 with a NO vote on Issue 2 this year, you’d think the Cleveland Police Department would be more than eager to DO THEIR JOB. The apathetic response to such a vicious hate crime is inexcusable under ANY climate, but it strikes me as especially egregious that our public servants would so quickly forget that their duty is to protect and serve this community. The victim literally did part of their job FOR them by tracking down the stolen cell phone and providing them with a location, which COULD have led to the arrest of at least one of the thugs that attacked Alison.

At this point in time, while the Cleveland FBI Hate Crime Unit has also begun THEIR investigation, the Police Department is still officially on this case because this crime occurred in their jurisdiction and was also a robbery and theft. So it is imperative that they give this case the attention it calls for, and they have FAILED to do so.

Let’s show the CPD that the time for that ignorance and neglect is OVER, and We Are Watching.

Call the following numbers and ask the Police Department: “What are you doing to seek justice for Alison Lancaster? Why isn’t the department investigating?”

ALSO: Call Cleveland Rapid Transit Authority complaint line at 216-566-5227 and ask them “Why aren’t your survellience cameras at W. 65th & Madison repaired yet? What will it take for your customers safety to become a priority for you?”

Please visit the Facebook event page and invite your friends to help Alison see justice. There is also a Chip In! page for donations to help Alison cover the costs of recovery.

November 23

Women’s Group – Occupy Cleveland OutreachWhen? 8:00pmWhere?Tower 230, 230 W. Huron, Cleveland, OHWhat? We aim to create a safe space for woman-identified individuals to discuss ideas and goals on how Occupy Cleveland can incorporate events/direct actions to better demonstrate the movement’s solidarity with women in their struggles. Come on down, share a bite/drink/idea. We look forward to networking with other Cleveland women! Please share with your friends and family.RSVP?On Facebook

November 30

Appreciation Night for the Friends of Nickie J. AntonioWhen? 5:30pm – 8:00pmWhere?Latitude 41n, 5712 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, OHWhat? Appetizers, beer, wine, door prizes! This is a free event* to volunteers, donors, and friends of the campaign. See the RSVP page for Host Committee list. *donations are optional, remember Ohio State income tax forms allow a political contribution as a tax credit for individuals up to $50 and married couples filing jointly can claim up to a $100 credit. If you are able to help with a more generous contribution, of course, that would certainly be appreciated.RSVP?On Facebook

Protest At The Y.O.U.N.G. ExpoWhen? 8:00am – 2:30pmWhere? Multiple locations, Youngstown, OHWhat? Join No Frack Ohio in a day of protest, learning, and building relationships for action! Start at the First Unitarian Universialist Church for coffee, muffins and networking at 8:00am; ending with a march from the church to to Covelli Center for protest, then on to the Square for rally. Please see No Frack Ohio for full event details!RSVP?Here!

Ongoing

Join Occupy ClevelandWhen? October 6th – ?Where? Tom Johnson Quadrant of Public SquareWhat? Still going strong, despite the arrests on Friday, October 22. Various working groups that have been formed will facilitate daily General Assembly meetings at 6pm, as well as direct actions, performances and other activities. Please see the Daily Digest (updated as of Oct. 27) for information on various education opportunities from the Working Groups ranging from sexual assault concerns to art to civil disobedience and direct action.RSVP?On Facebook

Repeal Senate Bill 5 – VICTORY! What? Distribute Absentee Ballot Request Applications because these forms will NOT be mailed to voters automatically this year; Canvass or Phone Bank to converse with the community about the importance of voting NO on Issue 2 in order to STOP SB5.Contact?Fight For A Fair Economy or We Are Ohio

October 28

Cleveland Critical Mass Halloween RideWhen? 7:00pm – 10:00pmWhere?Public Square, Cleveland, OHWhat? Cleveland Critical Mass is a local grassroots initiative to promote bicycling as a means of transportation and recreation, assert bicyclists’ rights to the road, build and foster community, and have fun. In concert with over 300 cities internationally, Critical Mass group bicycle rides originating from Downtown Cleveland take place on the last Friday of every month. The October ride has taken on the tradition of becoming a costumed stroll around town, and this year will be no different. So dress up however you’d like (or not). Noodlecat will be hosting a Halloween and end-of-the-season party for CCM following the ride. Occupy Cleveland will be joining!RSVP?On Facebook

The Women of Imperial Ave. Candlelight VigilWhen? 5:15pmWhere? Next to serial killer Anthony Sowell’s home, at 12205 Imperial Ave., Cleveland, OHWhat? The rally and candlelight vigil, to mark the second anniversary of the murders of 11 Black women on Cleveland’s Imperial Ave., will open with a prayer for the betterment of women by Jean Whitte, a member of the Imperial Women and Black on Black Crime. Occupy Cleveland will also be standing in solidarity. Please lend your support and your heart for this important rememberance.RSVP? None. Just come on down!

Anthony Fossaceca ‘NO on Issue 2’ CanvassWhen? 9:30am – 2:00pmWhere? Panera Bread, 6130 Kruse Drive, Solon, OHWhat? Help us kickoff the final 10 days of campaign 2012 with the most intense, fun, energized, mobilized canvass against SB5 in modern times. It will be easy. It will be fun. And it will be worth the time and effort. All we need is YOU. Because SB5 affects YOU. Meet for coffee, donuts, and clipboards. We canvass for a few hours, then meet back up at Panera for some hot food, cold drinks, and fiery speeches to recap and celebrate our efforts.If you like your house not burning to the ground, you should be there.If you like not having mayhem in the streets, you should be there.If you like kids on your block knowing how to read, you should be there.RSVP?On Facebook

October 30

Occupy The Hood Cleveland Presents ‘Village Soup’When? 12:00pm – 3:00pmWhere?11239 Superior Ave., Cleveland, OHWhat? Come join us and put the UNITY back in CommUNITY by addressing the issues disproportionately affecting People of Color and LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD to help bring forth viable solutions; and Enjoy Delicious Soup and other activities! Bring something to put in our pot of soup if you desire. (Sponsored By the Audacity Of Hope Foundation)RSVP?On Facebook

Occupy Cleveland Planning and Organizational MeetingWhen? 3:00pm – 6:00pmWhere?Trinity Cathedral, 2230 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OHWhat? We are looking to expand our operations and get bigger action going, and for that to happen we need more people involved, and more help with our planning and process. That means YOU! If you support the cause, you don’t need to camp, but helping plan events, reach out to communities, and organize rallies is so important. If you have experience with this sort of event planning , you will be vital. If you don’t, but just want to help, there is so much our occupiers need on a daily basis, and this meeting will help you put your every-day skills to great use for #OccupyCleveland!RSVP? None. Just come on down!

Occupy Columbus ‘Inside Job’ ScreeningWhen? 3:00pm – 5:30pmWhere? Victory’s Pizza and Grub, 543 S. High Street, Columbus, OHWhat? Screening of the movie “Inside Job”, which details many of the events and policy decisions that led to the 2008 recession. It’s a very eye-opening film about what all is going on with Wall St. and the government, and we encourage everyone to go see it. Following the movie there will be time for discussion. Hope to see everyone there!RSVP?On Facebook

October 31

Occupy Cleveland Halloween Event: ScareCorps ScarecrowsWhen? 1:00pm – 3:00pmWhere? Tom Johnson Quadrant of Public SquareWhat? Have fun making ScareCorps scarecrows for a 5pm Halloween display. The scarecrows are commentary regarding the ease of overnight assembly in Public Square. It is our innate right to assemble and solve problems comfortably in a long term manner on our land. We need enough straw, burlap, twine, paint for faces, etc. to make twenty “ScareCorps” to lay as sleeping figures around the quadrant. We’ll write a corporation’s name on each “sleeping” ScareCorps. We can use things like old pillowcases with blown up balloons inside for heads and burlap and cloth for torsoes. Arms and legs optional, depending on creative whim! We need all the hands we can get. And it’ll be fun!RSVP? None. Just come on down!

November 4

Stand for the Dream ActionWhen? 12:00pmWhere? Chase Bank, 1300 E. 9th St, Cleveland, OHWhat? Come join the MoveOn.org action to protest the malpractices of the big banks and their continuing negative impact on our economy. Meet on the sidewalk in front of the bank. Feel free to bring signs!RSVP?Here

Cleveland – Get Out The Vote On Issue 2When? 9:00am – 9:00pm, varying shiftsWhere?Firehouse, 1455 W 29th St., Cleveland, OH 44113What? 1.3 million signatures agree with us—and now is the time to get out the vote for No on Issue 2. We need to tell every single voter what’s at stake when they go to cast their ballot, and to stand with Ohio’s workers and vote no on this devastating legislation. We’ll be canvassing in your neighborhood to make sure our neighbors know the truth, but we could use your help. Stand with us and every worker in Ohio and join us for one canvassing shift. OFA Ohio organizers will train you to knock on the doors, and we’ll send you to get the word out. Bring a friend so you can go knock together and get out the vote.RSVP?Here

ISO-CLE & Occupy Cleveland Canvass Against Issue 2When? 6:00pm – 9:00pmWhere?AFL-CIO Office, 3250 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OHWhat? The ISO of Cleveland is organizing a carpool from Public Square to the AFL-CIO office 5:30 PM, but there are opportunities to canvass throughout the day (@ 9AM, 12PM, 3PM, and 6PM). No experience is necessary, and the AFL-CIO will be providing an extensive training beforehand.RSVP?On Facebook

Bank Transfer DayWhen? Whenever your bank opens on Saturdays!Where? Everywhere!What? Together we can ensure that these banking institutions will always remember the 5th of November. If we shift our funds from the for-profit banking institutions in favor of not-for-profit credit unions before this date, we will send a clear message that conscious consumers won’t support companies with unethical business practices. It’s time to invest in local community growth! (WHEOhio note:In recognition of the fact that not all of us can qualify for credit union accounts, please note Dollar Bank, a great local community bank that invests in Ohio’s small businesses! Another alternative is Netspend, which can accessed online and provides direct deposit and visa debit card just like community banks, as well as a small grace for overdrafts – meaning NO FEE. I’ve personally used Netspend and hold them in very high regard!)RSVP?On Facebook

November 6

Occupy Cleveland One Month Anniversary Get-TogetherWhen? 2:00pm – 10:00pmWhere?Willard Park & Public SquareWhat? We will be celebrating our one month anniversary with an opportunity to be a little less political, and a little more social. Forge bonds, and make friends to help us through the winter and find common ground for common action. We will meet at the Free Stamp beginning at 2PM, and at 5PM we will march to public square, where we will remain until 10PM. Come down and have a good time!RSVP?On Facebook

November 7

Working America Phone Bank: Reject Issue 2/SB5When? TBAWhere? TBAWhat? Call constituents to remind them that election day is November 8th; discuss the ramifications of Issue 2 and encourage NO votes. If you’ve never phonebanked before, DO NOT BE INTIMIDATED! It is easy, it’s fun, and very rewarding!RSVP? Call 216-781-3032 for information on how you can participate.

Veterans/Armistice Day March for DEMOCRACY! When? 4:00pm – 8:00pmWhere?Levis Square, Toledo, OHWhat?Occupy Toledo invites all of Toledo to a March and Rally in honor of all Veterans, and all those currently in active duty in the Military. We ask that all Veterans, Veterans for Peace, and any other Military organizations in support of the global Occupations come out, and join us in solidarity. We will gather at Levis Square in downtown Toledo, and then march up Madison to Michigan St. to the courthouse, across the courthouse lawn towards One Government Center down Jackson to St. Clair, and then back to Levis Square for a rally. Please see RSVP page for speaker list as it is extensive.This march is in Solidarity with this global day of Occupation, and protest.RSVP?On Facebook

Veterans Day CelebrationWhen? 5:00pm – 10:00pmWhere? Twist, 11633 Clifton Blvd, Cleveland, OHWhat? Come hang out with NEOAVER at Twist on Veterans Day! Say thanks to everyone who served. CIVILIANS are welcome too of course! Of everyone who is old enough to serve, us veterans are only “12%” — we’ld be LOST without all of the civilian allies who lobby and fight for us! We want to thank you for YOUR support as much as any of you want to thank us.RSVP?On Facebook

November 12 & November 13

Occupy Public Square! Numerous Event DetailWhen?Saturday:
• 12:00pm Gather to begin creating art for 4:00pm direct action.
• 1:00pm Speakers TBA.
• 2:00pm Music by Johnathan Blackshire and Loki.
• 3:00pm March; fun times and no risk.
• 4:00pm Direct Action; Nonviolent and FUN direct action to re-occupy our shared public space which should not be a cause for concern, BUT there is a potential CIVIL DISOBEDENCE/ARREST RISK, so please evaluate this for yourself. Action will be: “Cleveland Occupies the Banks”
-There will be stencils and supplies to create and decorate headbands
-Bring clothing to stencil and decorate
– OccupyCleveland T-shirt to be given away to best Monopoly guy costume (we’ll be doing some red and green houses to match)
-No tents, we’re building HOUSES (to be carried/worn)
-Please visit Occupy Cleveland for event needs!This action is designed as a creative way to highlight the issues surrounding foreclosure in our communities. All houses are being created as pieces of art, designed to be mobile (not structural). These pieces of art will be set up with the intention of moving if we are ‘foreclosed on’. We are not intending to create or escalate high-arrest-risk situations. Please, if you are planning on participating in the direct action, understand this but that there might be risk of arrest and let us know HERE.Where? Public Square, Tom Johnson Free Speech (NW) quadrantWhat? General Description: Our goal is to gather upon Public Square in protest of the domination of the 1% that controls economic and political power. Cleveland is being TORN APART BY FORECLOSURE and we say NO! So we’re going to build a city and go occupy the very banks that are occupying our city. If you support the Occupy Cleveland ideals of individual empowerment, economic justice, political freedom, and nonviolence, now is the time. Join us on Public Square, northwest quadrant, this Saturday… and rolling right into Sunday. The Occupation will be there. Will you be a part of it?RSVP?Here!

Occupy Mansfield November 12th, 2011When? 11:00am – ?Where?Central Park, Mansfield, OHWhat? We will gather near the MLK memorial to protest corporate greed and social inequities in solidarity with Occupy Wall Street and the global movement. Bring signs, fliers will be available to handout. Free hot coffee will be available at the Coffee Cup Inn at 574 Park Avenue East until 1pm.Sidewalk chalk is needed & fun! Kid-friendly protest as long as parent/guardian is present. We will have a chili tasting dinner at 4pm! Please bring your favorite chili to share as well as dinnerware! At 6pm we will hold a candle light vigil for those worldwide peaceful occupiers who are being murdered for protesting, please bring candles if you can. Bring a tent and learn how to peacefully practice civil disobedience in solidarity with the worldwide occupation. The occupation will end when the last occupier leaves the park…..RSVP?On Facebook

November 15

Produce for PeopleWhen? 10:00am – 2:00pmWhere? ATGC, 3210 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OhioWhat?The Aids Taskforce of Greater Cleveland is collaborating with our friends at The Cleveland Foodbank for three, count ’em, THREE produce distributions this winter. Our first will be on November 15th from 10am-2pm. This is open to the public. Additional event dates are December 13th and January 10th from 10am-2pm. All questions should be directed to Leon Hall, ATGC Director of Operations at 216-621-0766 ext. 227 or lhall@atfgc.orgRSVP?On Facebook

November 16

Cash Mob: Support Local Business!When? 6:00pm – 9:00pmWhere? Lincoln Park, W 11th and Starkweather, Cleveland, OHWhat? ‘Cash Mobs’ is a Cleveland-based flash mob that supports local businesses. It’s simple: a bunch of us get together, “target” a store that is locally owned and does good work in the community, then spend $20 or so at that store. We get the satisfaction of supporting a local business and we get something in return. Simple as that. For the first one, we’ll meet in Lincoln Park at the corner of W. 11th and Starkweather at 6 p.m. We already have a business picked out, and the owner knows we’re coming. Look for the guy in the penguin hat when you get there. For more information visit the blog or follow us on Twitter @cashmobs !RSVP?On Facebook

OHLA Saves Birth Control!When? 9:00am – 2:00pmWhere? Kilcawley Center, Youngstown State University, 1 University Plaza, Youngstown, OHWhat?The Ohio Lady Advocates will be setting up shop on the first floor of Kilcawley Center (in front of ComDoc) on the YSU campus to raise awareness about the pressure being put on the White House to implement a “refusal clause” that would exclude certain religiously-affiliated employers (universities, hospitals, students at religious universities) from covering birth control. This is a move that, if accepted by the White House, will impact millions of women and families. OHLA will be encouraging students, faculty, and staff to call or text the White House to show support for the inclusion of ALL employees’ birth control in the Affordable Care Act.RSVP?On Facebook

November 17

Collective Upcycle Opening PartyWhen? 6:00pm – 9:00pmWhere?13226 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OHWhat? Upcycling is a kind of personal activism. It is a way of consuming and creating that relies on what is already available, as opposed to buying more stuff. The Collective Upcycle boutique will be open Thurs. – Sun., 11/17 – 12/24. It is a temporary pop-up shop – making use of a vacant shop space in Shaker Square. It provides a venue for artists, and upcycling fashionistas, to share our ideas and decorative art with others. Come join in as we make merry from our brand new spot in Shaker Square, the HQ of our pop-up Holiday Boutique! November 17th is our holiday pop-up grand opening.RSVP?On Facebook

We Are the 99%When? 12:00pm – 1:00pmWhere?Public Square, Cleveland, OHWhat?Moveon.org will join the Occupy Cleveland movement for about an hour to demonstrate our solidarity with them. Bring signs that say things like “Federal funding for infrastructure to create jobs!” “Develop alternative energy sources to create jobs!” Message from host: If you can bring food or anything you think the occupiers could use that would be great. MoveOn’s primary message for the day is “Where are the federal and state dollars to fix our infrastructure and create jobs” They are keeping the money and not spending it. Please join us!. Thank youRSVP?Here!

Signs Against Corruption (SAC) MeetingWhen? 2:00pm – 5:00pmWhere? Gypsy Bean Cafe, 6425 Detroit Ave, Cleveland, OHWhat? We will be gathering in the back room of Gypsy (locally owned mom-n-pop coffee house with vegetarian food options) to make new signs for the movement. Please bring any supplies you feel would be helpful. I will bring cardboard and a set of markers! Be ready to have the BEST cup of coffee or Latte in Cleveland and enjoy using art to bust corruption in our system!RSVP?On Facebook

Occupy the Hood Cleveland “Foreclosure Focus!” WorkshopWhen? 6:00pm – 9:00pmWhere?11239 Superior Ave., Cleveland, OHWhat? Corporate Greed in America has continuously attacked hundreds of people in our communities, causing them to lose their hopes due to the practice of Fraudulent Foreclosures. Find out how many have suffered from this degrading practice and how to fight back and stay in hour home. DO NOT BE A VICTIM TO THIS DEGRADING PRACTICE BY THE BANKS. Our speakers for this much needed workshop will include:
George Friday – Bill of Rights Defense Committee
David and Marva Patterson, Homeowners
Latefah Shampine, Experienced the Abuse of the Foreclosure ProcessRSVP?On Facebook

Transgender Day of RemembranceWhen? 6:00pm – 9:00pmWhere? The Free Stamp, E 9th & Lakeside, Cleveland, OHWhat? The Transgender Day of Remembrance is held annually as a memorial to trans-identified and gender variant individuals who are murdered each year due to hate, transphobia and our strict adherence to the gender binary. This event aims to raise awareness and educate the larger community in order to effect change in this horrifying trend. We will hold a candlelight vigil as a memorial for those we have lost. We will continue at Cleveland City Hall, where we will hear from local leaders about ways in which they and the community at large can get engaged in the movement for change. Following the program, people are invited to congregate at Bounce/Union Station in order to network, socialize, and celebrate how far we have come as a community.RSVP?On Facebook

Genderbloc Genderf*ck DRAG SHOWWhen? 9:00pm – 12:00amWhere? Catskeller, 1st Fl Tangeman Uni. Center, 2600 Clifton Ave., Cincinnati, OHWhat? It’s that time of year again! Come one, come all Genderbloc’s Fall Genderf*ck Drag Show honoring Transgender Day of Remembrance. There will be a raffle with sexy prizes! The Drag Show is FREE to the public, but we will be accepting donations which will benefit both TransOhio and Genderbloc. See all your favorite performers as well as a few new ones. Make sure to get there early, because Catskeller will fill up fast! Challenge gender roles by f*cking them up!RSVP?On Facebook

This is just the beginning of the October list. Please notify me of any events in the coming month so I can add!

*UPDATED as of 10/7/11*

October 1

Southeast Ohio Solidarity RallyWhen? 12:00pm – 6:00pmWhere?Gallia County Junior Fairgrounds, 189 Jackson Pike, Gallipolis, OHWhat? SERIOUS ACTIVISM AND FUN! Visit the booths of area unions and learn what your brothers and sisters in solidarity are doing to win the fight. Network and sign up to volunteer if you haven’t already done so. KID ZONE: Teachers from Southeast Ohio Education Association along with Ohio University students will have games, crafts, face painting, balloon sculpture, inflatables and more. FOOD AND DRINK: Provided by area Democrats and Republicans working together to fight SB5. LIVE MUSIC:The Boys of the Hock, The Magic Mama Band, The Cincinnati Emerald Society Police & Fire Pipes & Drums. SPEAKERS: Sherrod Brown, Jennifer Brunner, Ted Strickland, Pam Smith, and MORE!Call 740-637-8198 to reserve your organization’s free booth. (Booths are assigned first come, first serve. There are a limited number still available.)RSVP?On Facebook

October 2

First Annual Non-Violence Parade and RallyWhen? 3:00pm – 5:00pmWhere? Lincoln Ave., Youngstown, OHWhat? Ohio Lady Advocates will be participating in Youngstown’s first ever Non-Violence parade in celebration of Non-Violence Week (Oct. 2-8). The parade is open to all nonprofit organizations such as youth groups, athletic teams, church groups, neighborhood watch groups as well as businesses and government officials and politicians. We will start on Lincoln Ave. in front of the new YSU business school and proceed downtown. March with us in the parade and shout with us at the rally to help us wipe out violence!RSVP?On Facebook

October 3

Akron LGBTU Special Event: You Should Meet My Son!When? 6:00pm – 9:00pmWhere?Student Union TheaterWhat? We’re going to be showing the movie “You Should Meet My Son!” It’s safe to say that it’ll truly be a movie to remember. The idea is fairly simple: a conservative mother is horrified to find out that her only son is gay. However, determined to make sure her son doesn’t live his life alone, she sets out to find him the perfect husband. The movie will be followed by a discussion. So we can talk about how super-mega-funny-awesome-cool it was, obviously. :) We hope to see as many of you there as can come. Let’s fill up that theater!RSVP?On Facebook

October 5

GLASA’s Drag ShowWhen? 4:30pm – 8:00pmWhere? Cleveland State University’s Main Classroom AuditoriumWhat? The Drag Race this year will be hosted by Stone LeBeau and Rosario Garcia. The admission price is free with donations for GLASA welcome and to perform the price is 5$ before 9/29/2011 and 10$ up to 10/05/2011 after the 29th of September. In addition to the large prize of an iPod for contestants, there will also be a few opportunities for audience members to compete for smaller prizes such as gift cards to some amazing restaurants!IF you are planning on participating please email and let them know your song and when you can pay.RSVP?On Facebook and email IF PERFORMING at cleveland.state.glasa@gmail.com

October 5

#Occupy ClevelandWhen? 12:00pm – Ongoing until December 31 – Please see below under “Ongoing”Where?Willard Park Cleveland, OHWhat? The time has come to deploy this emerging stratagem against the greatest corrupter of our democracy: Wall Street, the financial Gomorrah of America. It’s time for DEMOCRACY NOT CORPORATOCRACY! Our nation, our species and our world are in crisis. The US has an important role to play in the solution, but we can no longer afford to let corporate greed and corrupt politics set the policies if our nation. More info about the protests around the globe, and what’s happening on Wall Street.RSVP?On Facebook

October 7

LGBT Safe Zone Ally Training – By Alexis Melville & Kim LangrehrWhen? 1:00pm – 3:30pmWhere?Rm. 316, Student Union, The University of AkronWhat? Make your office/cubical/desk a safe zone and learn about the LGBT community. IMPORTANT: Anyone interested in attending must e-mail Dr. Hayden at ehayden@uakron.edu to register. RSVP as this training session is limited to 25.RSVP? Email ehayden@uakron.edu AND On Facebook (You MUST email!)

October 11

NEOAVER Meeting – National Veterans Coming Out DayWhen? 7:00pm – 9:00pmWhere?Twist Social Club, 11633 Clifton Blvd, Cleveland, OHWhat? Since 2005, AVER has been celebrating NVCOD – National Veterans Coming Out Day on 11 October. Do your veteran friends know you’re queer? Do your queer friends know you’re a veteran? And now for the first time … it’s legal for our brothers and sisters in arms, who we pray will also become veterans, to come out while they are still in service. Come celebrate this landmark occasion with us!RSVP?On Facebook

October 11

NCOD Open Mic with ZPNWhen? 9:00am – 2:00pmWhere? Starbucks Lounge at University of Akron Student UnionWhat? We’re working with ZPN to host an open mic event for National Coming Out Day. You can sing, dance, recite poetry, OR…if you don’t want to perform at all, we have cards with facts about National Coming Out Day on them. If you can read, we want YOU! The open mic will take place in the Starbucks Lounge in the Student Union from 9 AM to 2 PM. I know that’s early, but hopefully you can still at least come and sit for a spell.RSVP?On Facebook

October 12

Jobs Not Cuts: Week of Action Event by MoveOnWhen? 12:00pmWhere? “Free Stamp” next to City Hall, E. 9th St. & Lakeside Avenue, Cleveland, OHWhat? The event will gather at the “Free Stamp” and then march across the street to the building which houses Senator Portman’s office. We will march and chant with signs for about one hour on East 9th St. to gain attention to Jobs not Cuts and to bring to people’s attention how much Senator Portman is worth and how much he pays in taxes.RSVP?On Moveon.org

October 14

Fundraiser Wing Ding For Molly Kuhlenschmidt When? 6:00pm – 9:00pmWhere?Scoundrels, 826 Front Street, Berea, OHWhat? Molly Kuhlenschmidt is two years old and was diagnosed with Leukemia a little over a month ago. Since then, Molly has had surgery, chemo and multiple hospital stays. TICKETS: $25 Includes beer, well-drinks, pizza, wings, rigatoni and salad. 50/50 Raffles and Raffles for baskets with great items inside! If you can’t make the event to help support this family, please consider making a donation. CHECKS CAN BE MADE OUT TO MOLLY OR MEGAN KUHLENSCHMIDT and can be given to Danielle, Rennee or directly to the family. YOU CAN ALSO MAKE A DONATION THROUGH PAYPAL UNDER: mollynoelle@sbcglobal.netRSVP?On Facebook

October 14

Cleveland Tar Sands ActionWhen? 12:00pm – 1:00pmWhere?Shaker Square Organizing for America office, 13100 Shaker Boulevard, Cleveland, OhioWhat? The Oil Extraction Industry fiercely wants to open up an additional pipeline, called the Keystone XL pipeline, from the Alberta Tar Sands project in Canada through Montana and several other states to reach Texas for processing and export. From August 20th to September 3rd, 1253 people were arrested in front of the White House in protest of this dirty, destructive, and dangerous project. Signing the permit is directly under President Obama’s control, and he has stated that he wants to make a decision by the end of 2011. We are continuing to send him the message all over the country that destroying the environment and displacing native peoples, in this case in the form of Tar Sands oil and the Keystone XL pipeline, is unacceptable for any reason. We will be combining with protesters in Columbus and Cincinnati to have coordinated protests on October 15 in order to continue pressing this issue at President Obama’s campaign offices.RSVP?On Facebook

October 20

Akron LGBTU: Teaching Tolerance with Akron PFLAGWhen? 7:00pm – 10:00pmWhere?North Springfield Presbyterian Church, 671 North Canton Road, Akron, Ohio
What? Featuring “Bullied” which, if you missed the event made for the meeting on the 11th, tells the story of Jamie Nabozny, a boy who fought in the courts for his rights, making a landmark case in which the court held the school responsible for preventing the victimization of students regardless of sexuality or gender identity/expression. A discussion will follow the screening of the movie, and it’ll be a chance to get in touch with members of the local PFLAG chapter. Which can only be a good thing, especially if you’d like to give your own family members or close friends information about PFLAG or anything like that.RSVP?On Facebook

October 21

2nd Annual Purple Light Night WalkWhen? 7:00pm – 9:00pmWhere? 1400 West 25th Street, Cleveland, OHWhat? This Walk offers support to families, friends and individuals impacted by Domestic Violence. We encourage you to come, bring a friend and wear PURPLE, the national color of domestic violence, to show your support of Purple Light Nights. WALK DETAILS: Walk begins at W. 25th Street & Detroit and ends at W. 9th Street & Superior. Upon reaching W. 9th Street, there will be a purple balloon release in honor of domestic violence victims.RSVP?On Facebook

October 27

Making Space to Talk About Abortion, Faith, and Religion: Preterm, MAML, Faith AloudWhen? 6:00pm – 8:00pmWhere?Preterm, 12000 Shaker Blvd., Cleveland, OHWhat? The executive director for Faith Aloud, a compelling religious voice for Reproductive Justice, Rev. Turner will speak about abortion as a moral decision and how Pro-Choice people can address religious/spiritual issues in abortion conversations and create safe spaces for these conversations. Rev. Turner’s audience includes faith leaders, members of faith communities, and reproductive justice advocates interested in the spiritual dimensions of their work, as well as those who may have stepped back from religion because of the negative messages about abortion.RSVP?On Facebook and you MUST ALSO EMAIL Linda@myabortionmylife.org

October 27

OHLA‘s H”OHLA”-ween FundraiserWhen? 7:00pm – 10:00pmWhere?Unitarian Universalist Church, 1105 Elm. St., Youngstown, OHWhat? Join the Ohio Lady Advocates for our first FUNdraiser and H”OHLA”-ween extravaganza! We’ll have a great time with delicious food and drink, crazy costumes, and marvelous music. Tickets are $5 for Students – $8 pre-order – $10 at the door. All proceeds go towards the Ohio Lady Advocates: for healthy women, families, and communities. Come celebrate with us so we can continue fighting real things that nightmares are made of.RSVP?On Facebook, email ohioladyadvocates@gmail.com

October 27

Justice Rocks: Live Music from Austin Walkin Cane/Last Call/oldboyWhen? 6:00pm – 2:00amWhere?Around The Corner, 18616 Detroit Avenue, Lakewood, OHWhat? Halloween Guest Bartending Event! We’re bringing it back to the West Side of town. Be sure not to miss this event with 25 bartenders behind the bar at Around the Corner. We figured its so close to Halloween lets dress up. (Dressing up is optional but a special surprise for those in costume) Doors will open at 6pm and we will have pizza and dessert once again until it runs out. Christmas Ale will be made available for purchase until it runs out. The talented band line up will start at 7pm with Austin Walker Cain, Last Call, and Oldboy. If you’ve not seen these performers you’re in for a treat. They are all amazingly talented! Greater Cleveland Community Shares raises funds for our 42 Social Justice Organizations in Northeast Ohio. We appreciate all the support the cost of this event is only $10. Purchase tickets at http://www.communityshares.orgRSVP?On Facebook

Ongoing

Join Occupy ClevelandWhen? October 6th – ?Where?Lakeside & E. 9th, Cleveland, OHWhat? Clevelanders will act in solidarity with the current Occupy Wall Street movement taking place in NYC and across the nation beginning on Thursday, October 6th at noon in Willard Park (under the Free Stamp). That afternoon they will march to their final occupation destination where protestors will set up their community camp and maintain an occupation indefinitely. Various working groups that have been formed will facilitate daily General Assembly meetings, direct actions, performances and other various activities. The event is free and open to the public. Willard Park is located at the corners of Lakeside and E. 9th next to the courthouse. Look for the Free Stamp!RSVP?On Facebook

Repeal Senate Bill 5What? Register new voters; Distribute Absentee Ballot Request Applications because these forms will NOT be mailed to voters automatically this year; Canvass or Phone Bank to converse with the community about the importance of voting NO on Issue 2 in order to STOP SB5.Contact?Fight For A Fair Economy or We Are Ohio

Stop House Bill 194, The Voter Suppression LawWhat? HB194 would severely limit early voting by mail, prohibit poll workers from assisting voters in completing forms, and make it more difficult for early voters to access in-person locations during evening hours and Sundays. We are currently collecting petition signatures to get a citizen’s VETO onto the 2012 ballot, and the deadline to STOP this law from affecting the 2011 elections is September 28. **UPDATE: We have collected 316,460 signatures. Therefore we have 10 more days past the previous deadline of 9/28 to collection more. KEEP COLLECTING. Remember, some signatures WILL be invalid. That’s the nature of petitions. WE NEED MORE.**Contact?Fair Elections Ohio for a signing event in your area or to collect signatures yourself.

The following is a list of various on-the-ground activities* that you and your fellow activists can join to make a difference in the month of September. Tomorrow, I’ll be at the Planned Parenthood rally passing out awesome pink t-shirts, and I’ll have a “We’ve Had Enough!” sign for anyone that would like to add their picture to our Facebook album. Please sign up, pass around, and hopefully I’ll see you there!

*If you know of an event that is not on this list, please comment and let me know so I can add it. The events are centered in Cleveland and Columbus, and I just know that there must be more in other areas I haven’t heard about; I’d like this blog to center on statewide events and issues rather than only those near my own residence. Suggestions for October are also welcome, as I’d like to make a similar list at the beginning of the month.

September 17

Raise Your Hand Rally 2011: Planned Parenthood of Northeast OhioWhen? 1:30pm – 3:00pmWhere?Cleveland Health Center, 7997 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OHWhat? Join Planned Parenthood of Northeast Ohio and our supporters September 17, 2011 for the Raise Your Hand Rally at the Planned Parenthood Cleveland Health Center. Students, supporters, and Planned Parenthood Federation of America president, Cecile Richards, will all be speaking at the event; as well as Nicke J. Antonio. They will address the countless attacks on reproductive justice and families in Ohio and why they “raise their hand” in support of Planned Parenthood and their services. (Nickie J. Antonio will also be having an informal meeting before the rally, for location and time please email me: weheohio[at]gmail[dot]com)RSVP?On Facebook; On Web

GetEQUAL’s Day of DiscontentWhen? 3:00pm – 6:00pmWhere?Downtown Columbus, Statehouse, 3rd & BroadWhat? Join us in urging legislators to not rest on this one piece of our equality BUT rather CONTINUE to legislate in favor of making us FULL AMERICAN CITIZENS. Come out and take a stand with us! WE NEED YOUR TO HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE. Numbers matter!RSVP?On Facebook

September 27

Equal Housing and Employment Act (EHEA) Rally, Press Conference & Lobby DayWhen? 1:30 – 2:30Where?Statehouse, Columbus, OHWhat? Ohio State Representatives Ross McGregor and Nickie Antonio will introduce EHEA in the House. EHEA prohibits discrimination in housing, employment and public accommodations on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. Take the opportunity on September 27th to visit your State Senator and State Representative to ask them to support EHEA.RSVP?On Facebook

*JUST ADDED*

OHLA: the Ohio Lady Advocates will be having their first meeting at YSU!When? 4:00pm – 5:00pmWhere? Bresnahan III (down the hall at the rear entrance of Kilcawley Center), Kilcawley Center, YSUWhat? We’re looking for young women and men who are interested in getting involved with actions that target local and state issues that threaten women’s, and men’s, access to quality, affordable healthcare options. We’ll discuss upcoming events, current projects/issues, and much, much more. Please invite your friends! These issues are especially important to college students, so come join us!RSVP?On Facebook

October 2

First Annual Non-Violence Parade and RallyWhen? 3:00pm – 5:00pmWhere? Lincoln Ave., Youngstown, OHWhat? Ohio Lady Advocates will be participating in Youngstown’s first ever Non-Violence parade in celebration of Non-Violence Week (Oct. 2-8). The parade is open to all nonprofit organizations such as youth groups, athletic teams, church groups, neighborhood watch groups as well as businesses and government officials and politicians. We will start on Lincoln Ave. in front of the new YSU business school and proceed downtown. March with us in the parade and shout with us at the rally to help us wipe out violence!RSVP?On Facebook

Ongoing

Repeal Senate Bill 5What? Register new voters; Distribute Absentee Ballot Request Applications because these forms will NOT be mailed to voters automatically this year; Canvass or Phone Bank to converse with the community about the importance of voting NO on Issue 2 in order to STOP SB5.Contact?Fight For A Fair Economy or We Are Ohio

Stop House Bill 194, The Voter Suppression LawWhat? HB194 would severely limit early voting by mail, prohibit poll workers from assisting voters in completing forms, and make it more difficult for early voters to access in-person locations during evening hours and Sundays. We are currently collecting petition signatures to get a citizen’s VETO onto the 2012 ballot, and the deadline to STOP this law from affecting the 2011 elections is September 28.Contact?Fair Elections Ohio for a signing event in your area or to collect signatures yourself.